• London 2012

Bolt: Nobody will beat me in London

Usain Bolt is fully focused and ready for glory this summer © Getty Images

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Usain Bolt has issued a statement of confidence that will further intimidate his rivals ahead of the London 2012 Games: that he is certain that nobody can better him if he is in top shape.

The three-time Olympic and five-time World Championship gold medallist explained that he remains as focused as ever, as he prepares to go for a repeat of his 2008 triple Olympic triumph in the 100m, 200m and 4x100m relay at this summer's Games.

"I know what I want and if you have a goal and you want it really bad like I do you have to be really focused. I want to repeat the feat of Beijing. That's the key, that has my focus," the 25-year-old said in the Daily Mail. "As long as I am in great shape, nobody will beat me in London. That's for sure."

Bolt also told his rivals that not even a busy commercial and media schedule would distract from his aims. "I have a great team around me," he said. "So if I get off track, they are there to make sure everything is limited, regulated. I want to keep everybody happy but the focus is always the Olympics."

There can be little doubt that the emergence of Bolt as one of the most globally recognisable sporting figures has helped to raise the profile of athletics once again, and the Jamaican said he has endeavoured to be a positive role model.

"A lot of people have said it and I think maybe it's true. I definitely have done a great deal for the sport. I've really worked hard at it.

"After Beijing, I've tried hard to put fire into the sport and now, not only me, but others have stepped up to make sure people are watching.

"Most athletes are loosening up like me, really enjoying the sport, so, yes, I think I've changed the sport in a better way. It [athletics] is never a pressure for me. It's just fun. I still enjoy doing it."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.